I am in need of some advise and guidance from some seasoned pros. Just last week I flew out to TX to view a 31 plat bullet from oso classifies named fit for a king at Gulf Coast in Seabrook. The meeting went well, very professional visit and fun test drive-little problem with charging system but vessel ran well. Boat is a little rough but I believe a little bit elbow grease and I may have a boat to be proud of. I have given a deposit and have the funds ready to forward. The boat owner that I spoke with appeared to be a gentleman and I am pleased with his response.
The questions I have is:
-does anyone know of this vessel and the history-it had turbos now it has 502 mags
-how does one buy a $50k boat and insure it gets delivered from TX to California without getting an ulcer waiting for the rig.
-are there any precautions that I should take in finalizing this deal and moving forward.

Any help-suggestions would be appreciated.

survey said?

Sales mgr at GCB stated no survey needed-looked pretty clean-bildge and hull clean-took chance-should I demand survey?

that boat has been for sale for a while. Get a Survey on the boat. Will be the best money you will ever spend !!!! (good or bad)

survey on that boat will be under $500. ask here on the board for a reputable surveyor in the area.

YES!! Best $ you'll spend. Giving the salesman the benefit of the doubt here....does he have a copy of a recent survey for you or is he hoping you don't know any better?

Survey Survey Survey and be there when YOUR transport company picks it up and pay the final monies... do not leave until the thing is out the door.

Find your own Survey guyalso I'm sure someone here can help you just post in the General Forum.

I'm sure the guys at National Marine where nice guys also...

I bought a boat in NY (going to VA) and it ended up taking a month to get it . Good luck and listen to the survey advise.

I agree survey, Most insurance companies will not insure a late model boat with out one. At least in Ohio. you might want to check with them before you set up transportation.

http://www.offshoreonly.com/esvon/page-3422.html

Oh my!!! - he may as well told you theres no need to start the motors - no sea trial necessary, ...There is no such thing as a 15 year old boat thay does not require a survey, just ask your insurance agent.Its mandatory for a policy so do it now and skip the possible surprises. Good luck.

btw, how fast during the trial?? did it crack 70mph?